Tampa-area Sen. Joyner to be next Senate Dem leader

The Florida Democratic Party announced the news this afternoon as lawmakers wrapped up the 2013 legislative session.

"I look forward to working with her in the fight against the Republican's failed policies that have hurt Floridians access to health care, the voting booth, and to a strong education for our children," said Democratic Party Chair Allison Tant.

Joyner, an attorney, will be the first black woman to serve as the Senate Democratic leader. She is currently Vice Chair of both the Judiciary Committee and the Appropriations Subcommittee on Criminal and Civil Justice.

Joyner will take over from Smith following the 2014 legislative session next spring and lead the senate campaigns for the 2014 cycle.